Internet connectivity is a critical resource during the pandemic and the Internet For All coalition aims to ensure every family has access. The Internet For All coalition is made up of more than 40 community leaders including Chief Technology Officers from 9 Dallas County school districts, The Dallas Regional Chamber, City of Dallas, the Dallas Innovation Alliance and the Federal Reserve Bank. The coalition has been meeting since May to pursue short-term, medium-term and long-term strategies to ensure all students have a reliable internet connection. The “Get Connected” campaign, sponsored by Senator Royce West, will encourage students and families to…

This school year, Dallas ISD will receive a $28 million funding allocation for its teacher strategic compensation program from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Dallas ISD was named one of only 26 districts statewide to receive approval for participation in Cohort A of the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), which passed under House Bill 3 (HB3) in June 2019. HB3 established an optional TIA to achieve six-figure salaries for teachers who prioritize instruction in high-needs areas and rural district campuses. Under the TIA, approved districts may submit highly effective teachers for a state designation of Recognized, Exemplary, or Master, based on…

Mental health conditions impact one in six children, and that number may increase during a community crisis such as the current Covid-19 pandemic. With that in mind, Dallas ISD is ramping up efforts to provide mental health services and focus on social and emotional learning when the school year virtually starts on Sept. 8. The Dallas ISD Mental Health Services team of licensed mental health clinicians include psychologists, therapists, social workers, and psychiatrists. They work with students with challenges such as anxiety, depression and behavior concerns. The department is hiring 53 additional licensed mental health clinicians to increase services to…

Superintendent Michael Hinojosa decided today, after consulting with his senior leadership team and the Dallas County Health and Human Services staff, that the district will open with 100% distance learning when school starts Sept. 8. Distance learning will continue through at least Oct. 6. The decision reflects the guidance provided by Dallas County Health and Human Services. In addition, all extracurricular activities will remain in a distance setting as well, including strength and conditioning, band and drill team, all UIL and visual and performing arts activities. More details coming soon, and you can watch Hinojosa’s live announcement here.